Cerros Jr. lived in Gary as a small child before moving to Salinas, Calif., with his father. His mother still lives in the Brunswick neighborhood of Gary. Many of Cerros' relatives remain in Northwest Indiana.

Cerros joined the army with hopes of becoming a pilot. He was assigned to be a specialist with the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment and Joint Base Lewis-McChord Wash.

Honoring Chicagoland's Fallen Heroes

The family said Cerros Jr. was "happy-go-lucky" and passionate about his military service. The family plans to retrieve his body Monday afternoon in Delaware and hopes to bury him in Gary.

The army released a statement Monday calling Cerros a warrior. "Spc. Ricardo Cerros was an incredible talented and a well-respected member of this battalion," said Lt. Col. David Hodne in the statement. "We will honor his service to our country and never forget his sacrifice."